A ute or a pickup truck? For many Aussies, the answer to this question isn't always clear-cut. However, if you'd like to enjoy a regular car's driving experience combined with the utility of a truck, then the ute is an obvious choice.

If you are currently in the market for a ute tray, you might be wondering what ute tray builders or suppliers consider in determining the correct tray for their customers. Here is a lowdown on some of the top factors to look for in ute trays:

Size of the Tray

When it comes to selecting the right tray for your ute, size really matters. You will want to invest in a ute tray that's large enough to accommodate all the items you will need to carry as you move from point A to point B. 

An effective way to ensure you select the correct tray size for your ute is to list down all the things you'll need to carry along as you go about your everyday activities. This way, you will have a rough idea of how big or small your ute tray should be. 

The last thing you want is to require a new ute tray simply because the one you have is too small for your needs.

Weight of the Tray

Ute trays are generally available in two varieties of materials: steel and aluminium. Steel trays are generally heavier than their aluminium equivalents, meaning they carry less load. In applications where there is a need to maximise the payload capacity of the ute tray, aluminium trays are desirable.

With that said, the extra weight of steel tray isn't always a bad thing. In cab-chassis vehicles, which are usually driven with light loads or no loads at all, the weight of the steel tray can help to exert just the right amount of pressure on the rear suspensions to allow for a smooth and comfortable ride. 

Strength of the Tray

Steel ute trays are not only heavier than their aluminium cousins but also sturdier. In applications where your tray will be subjected to heavy impact on a day-to-day basis, a steel tray may really come in handy.

For example, if you see yourself throwing hard metal tools such as jackhammers and sledgehammers into the tray of your ute, you should make sure that the tray is tough enough to withstand the abuse. Aluminium trays are a perfect choice for ute owners who don't see themselves exposing their trays to similar kinds of abuse.

Choosing the right tray for your ute is essential for getting the most out of the vehicle, so don't hesitate to seek expert advice when it is time to make a purchase decision.